Design Notes
Increasingly, homeowners are not only interested in using eco-friendly products and materials but also in designing their homes to have the least possible impact on the environment. This has led to a rise in zero waste kitchen concepts, with designers seeking to meet their clients’ requests in a way that provides a functional, environmentally friendly, yet stylish kitchen. We know that certain materials are better than others, and incorporating more natural elements into our home is beneficial, but what exactly does it mean to design a zero-waste kitchen or bathroom? We aim to answer that question, while also providing you with helpful tips for your upcoming renovation.
What Is A Zero Waste Kitchen?
Essentially, it is a design concept centered on a minimalist lifestyle, where homeowners only keep the things they use daily, as opposed to a traditional kitchen design. The primary goal of this type of kitchen is to minimize waste in areas such as water usage, trash, and the limited use of products that can be reused rather than discarded. Of course, it is nearly impossible to live completely waste-free, but rather to be less wasteful. One of the main keys to accomplishing this task is to live with intention, thinking about what you use every day and how you could reduce or recycle it instead. A well-designed plan can make this easier than you think.
Thoughtful Design
One suggestion is to buy in bulk and opt for reusable grocery bags, which is a great idea, but that can mean some modifications are needed to your kitchen design. Larger purchases, such as flour, sugar, and spices, require adequate storage space to maintain freshness. A pantry with shelves capable of bearing the extra weight or with space underneath them to place large, airtight containers is a great way to solve this problem. Including additional hooks or even large drawers where you can store all your reusable shopping bags so that they are not scattered around the house can be very beneficial. Composting is another important element for achieving a zero-waste kitchen, but this usually requires some extra thought. Having a double trash can pull-out can be a wonderful option, as all your trash can be taken care of in one simple area. Just be sure to select one that is airtight, so you can empty it once a day without worrying about the smell seeping through your kitchen. Don’t forget about a recycling station. You can choose to have an additional collection station in the laundry room or even the pantry, since there is very little odor associated with this. Additionally, it will make recycling easier for everyone if there are bins with clear labels. A well-thought-out design plan can make all the difference for a zero-waste kitchen or even bathroom.
Think Long Term
When considering a kitchen renovation, itis essential to ask yourself a few key questions, such as: Will this be my forever home? If the answer is yes, then consider what elements are important to you and that will age in place with you. By doing this, you will limit the need for another renovation later, which can also contribute to the zero-waste factor, as we all know that construction is a messy business and waste is unavoidable. Some good things to keep in mind for an aging-in-place kitchen include:
- Lower countertops
- Minimal floor transitions
- Extra drawers
- Durable material
- Additional lighting
Making these small adjustments at the beginning of your remodel will result in fewer adjustments later, and it will also save you money. Consider the materials you select and choose those that will provide the longest lifespan, such as countertops and flooring options. The more durable the material, the longer you can enjoy your space and avoid having to do it all over again. Select cabinets that will handle wear and tear well over the years. Consider your kitchen layout as well; the more detailed the plan and the longer-term thought process, the more likely it will last for a long time.
Eco-Friendly Design Options
There are many eco-friendly design options available, and while they are not the same as zero waste, the goal is still to minimize our carbon footprint. When planning a renovation or remodel, look at options such as:
- Bamboo
- Cork
- Reclaimed wood
- Recycled glass
- Natural lighting
- Natural fabric
These materials will still do a wonderful job of making your home comfortable and beautiful, but are more environmentally friendly. Whenever possible, plan to maximize the natural light available in your home; not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it also offers several health benefits. Reclaimed wood and recycled glass are wonderful design choices, as they keep these materials out of landfills and turn them into something amazing. Often, they offer unique options that add visual interest to your space as well. When it comes to upholstery and area rugs, selecting materials that are natural, like cotton and wool, which also tend to be more durable than the man-made fabrics that are treated with chemicals. Bamboo is a rapidly growing plant, making it a great substitute for items traditionally made from wood, such as cutting boards, furniture, and accent pieces. Cork is a renewable resource derived from the bark of a tree, and it is also hypoallergenic and resistant to mold, making it an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Eco-friendly choices align with zero-waste ideals to maintain the planet in optimal condition. For some additional ideas and tips to eliminate waste in your everyday life, check out this blog post from Sustainable Jungle.
Greenbrook DesignHomes are a collection of things we love, and sometimes those things can come from places outside the traditional sources, such as your typical home furnishings stores. Increasingly, designers and homeowners alike are discovering the benefits of antique stores. These places, often thought of as the last stop for items no one else wanted, have become a popular shopping stop for those who want to have something unique in their home and enjoy the thrill of “treasure hunting”. More and more design styles are also embracing vintage finds, seeking to blend them together to create something special, such as the grand millennial and mid-century modern styles. Millennials are also enjoying the freedom to branch out in their design choices, creating a home that is customized to their own personality. Antique shopping can be a wonderful way to uncover those special touches that can make all the difference in your home, so let’s explore how to get started and what to do with all of the treasures you find.
Walker WoodworkingMore designers and contractors are incorporating this secondary space into the kitchen to gain square footage and have an area that works as an extension of the kitchen. Let’s dive deeper into what a butler pantry is and what the benefits are for you.
Walker WoodworkingThis is why we have created multiple door profile styles so that each of our clients can find the one that perfectly tells their story to everyone. At times, they are not able to pinpoint one that speaks to them, which is why we offer custom door styles as well. Several of our clients have opted for mullion cabinet doors, which always add a beautiful touch to their space.
Greenbrook DesignRecycling old styles with a modern twist is a phenomenal way to honor the past while creating the future. Nostalgia is a valuable part of the creative process, especially in designing homes, our little personal factory of memories. So, don’t be afraid to try out some of these forgotten interior design styles that are making a comeback. It’s nice to freshen up your whole concept and take a little walk through a time capsule. Let your creativity fly in the limbo of styles, and wonder what else will be new soon.
Walker WoodworkingWe all have an idea of what our dream home would look like, after all, that is what places like Houzz and Pinterest are for, right? You wish you could have those little personalized spaces and upscale feel in your home that makes it stand out from the ordinary. Sometimes we believe that the home we envision is far too luxurious for our budget, but that is not true. But with a little creative thinking, anything is possible! There are many ways to stretch a budget through good planning and a few helpful tricks that can give you the luxury you desire without breaking the bank. Let’s explore the various ways to achieve designing a luxury home on a budget and bring your dreams to life.
Greenbrook Design 
Walker Woodworking